Window



June 26, 1962 J. F. STEEL 3,040,850

Filed July 25, 1958 iNVENTOR.

c//w E STEEL June 26, 1962 Filed July 25, 1958 .1. F. STEEL 3,040,850

WINDOW 5 Sheets-Sheet 2 (fox/N515 TEEL J. F. STEEL June 26, 1962 WINDOW 5. 3158915 II... E

Filed July 25, 1958 J. F. STEEL June 26, 1962 WINDOW 5 Sheets-Sheet 4 Filed July 23, 1958 INVENTOR. cfamvfifirasz BYgz J. F. STEEL June 26, 1962 WINDOW 5 Sheets-Sheet 5 Filed Juy 23, 1958 d R r INVENTOR. clay/v [5755A flit/"2e 5 United States Patent York Filed July 23, 195s, Ser. No. 750,470 12 Claims. (Cl. 189-62) This invention relates to Windows, and more particularly to an improved window structure of the type employing metal frames.

Metal frame windows of the prior art generally employ extruded aluminum elements for the head, jamb and sill portions of the frame. However, these portions are shaped differently, i.e., the head, jamb and sill of a frame are all difierent in cross-section.

Further, it is customary to make frame sections in different shapes and sizes to accommodate windows of a variety of types and sizes. For example, each of the head, jamb and sill sections is made of a different shape and size for picture windows, fixed panels, louvered windows, awning windows and projected windows. The manufacture of such frames necessarily involves numerous operations with different types of equipment for making them, and requires that the many different types of frames be stocked, all of which adds considerably to the cost of the windows.

These characteristics of prior art frame construction sharply limit the choices of window types and sizes which an architect can incorporate in a design. Whether such design is for a residence or a curtain wall forming the exterior wall of a building, the architect, in order to achieve a pleasing appearance, has had to limit his selection of Window types to those wherein the frames are substantially the same. Where functional windows are to be used (e.g., louvered windows), the width of the movable glass louvers which can be employed is dictated by the width of the frames. Accordingly, presently known aluminum frame windows are structures wherein the architect has little freedom of choice, but rather is forced to settle for compromise in design.

Furthermore, in spite of the multitude of shapes and sizes of window frames, many prior art window structures do not provide adequate protection to prevent moisture and drafts from entering a closed window. This is particularly true of jalousie or louvered Windows. For example, the ends of a pane in a louvered window are held in clips which are caused to rub against seals or weatherstrips held in the jambs as it is opened and closed. Such rubbing causes Wear, and over a period of time, the seals flatten and set so that they can no longer serve their function. When the louvers are closed, air and moisture readily enter between the seal elements and the clips, causing discomfort to persons and possible damage to fumiture and other items in the room.

Another disadvantage of prior art functional windows is that the panes are opened by applying a force to a clip on one edge thereof. The rigidity of the glass is relied upon to cause the pane to move in and out. However, this type of operation places an undue stress on the glass. Furthermore, this torquing of the glass causes it to twist so that its opposite edges do not remain parallel, i.e., it is warped. It is not uncommon that, after some period of use, a pane becomes permanently warped, whereupon it is impossible to cause both clips to engage the seals.

In curtain wall arrangements of the prior art, there is, in addition to the above described limitations on selection of window types, the disadvantage of inadequate allowance for expansion and contraction. The jambs of the frames are secured to vertical members or mullions, which are extruded aluminum members fixed to the floor slabs of a building. By so fixing the frames, expansion and con- 2 traction of the window structures cannot take place without exerting undue stresses and strains on the frames and the mullions. Such effects, together with inadequate Weatherstrip arrangements, result in moisture and air infiltration.

It is an object of this invention to provide an improved window structure in which a common frame design is used for the head, jamb, and sill portions.

It is another object of this invention to provide an improved Window structure in which the same frame design can be used for a variety of windows, both fixed and functional.

Yet a further object of this invention is to provide a window structure having improved means for opening and closing movable panels, and providing a frame structure adapted to accommodate operating mechanisms for a variety of sizes of panes.

A still further object of this invention is to provide a window structure with which a curtainwall can be built having any desired number and variety of fixed and functional type windows, each having framing of uniform appearance.

It is yet another object of this invention to provide an improved curtainwall for supporting windows so as to allow for their expansion and contraction vertically and horizontally.

The above and other objects and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings of illustrative embodiments thereof, and in which:

FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of a window structure employing a central picture window flanked by louvered windows, each louvered window having a meeting rail, and showing the uniform appearance of the frames used for the windows;

FIGURE 2 is a sectional view taken along the line 2-2 of FIGURE 1, to show the operation of the linkage mechanism for opening and closing the sections of the louvered windows;

FIGURE 3 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional view similar to FIGURE 2, showing more clearly the cooperative relation between the operating bar and link elements with the side clips which hold the glass louver;

FIGURE 4 is a fragmentary sectional view taken along the line 44 of FIGURE 1, showing how the louverholding clips are secured to the jambs, and also showing how the jambs of the louvered windows and the picture window are interlocked;

FIGURE 5 is an enlarged perspective view of the clips for the louvered window, showing the contour thereof to effect the desired pivotal movement of the glass panes;

FIGURE 6 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional view of operating and torque bars used to effect movement of the clips, showing means to operate the bars to move the clips;

FIGURE 6a is an enlarged perspective view of a bearing member for the torque bar of FIGURE 6;

FIGURE 7 is a fragmentary sectional view, taken along the line 77 of FIGURE 6, showing more clearly the linkage of the manually operable member for moving the operating bar at one jamb, and the arrangement of the torque bar for effecting movement of the operating bar at the other jamb;

FIGURE 8 is an enlarged fragmentary plan view of one end of the meeting rail through which the torque bar extends, showing how the meeting rail is secured to the jamb frame;

FIGURE 9 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional view, taken along the line 9-9 of FIGURE 3, showing the snap-in pin arrangement for securing the pane-holding clips to the jamb frames;

FIGURE is a fragmentary view in perspective of an element used to interlock adjacent frames;

FIGURE 11 is an enlarged view in perspective of an auxiliary interlocking element;

FIGURE 12 is a perspective view of a clear-vent type window, showing two panes separated by a meeting rail;

FIGURE 13 is a sectional view, taken along the line 1313 of FIGURE 12, showing how the respective panes are hinged, and also showing operating bar and linkage arrangements connected to a torque bar in the meeting rail for effecting the desired movement of the panes and their associated hinge elements;

FIGURE 14 is a fragmentary sectional view, taken along the line 14-14 of FIGURE 12, showing how the vent side rail sections on either side of each pane support the pane, and showing how the side rails are connected to the links;

FIGURE 15 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional view, to show more clearly details of my frame and the vent side rail of FIGURE 14, and showing more clearly the arrangement of vinyl and woven pile elements to prevent moisture and air from entering between the tie-in elements and the frame;

FIGURE 16 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional view, taken along the line 16--16 of FIGURE 14, showing how the link elements are secured to respective brackets or tiein straps for pivotal movement, and showing the operating bar slidably mounted with respect to the straps;

FIGURE 17 is a perspective view, partially broken away, of a curtain wall employing a plurality of sections comprising projected windows, picture windows and fixed aluminum panels supported between uprights or mullions;

FIGURE 18 is a fragmentary sectional view, taken along the line 18-18 of FIGURE 17, showing how the picture window jamb frames are supported by a mullion;

FIGURE 19 is a fragmentary sectional view, taken along the line 19-19 of FIGURE 17, showing how the sill and head frames of the respective or adjacent picture windows are interlocked;

FIGURE 20 is a fragmentary view in perspective of a mullion, showing means for securing it to a floor slab, and showing an expansion joint coupling the mullion to another mullion;

FIGURE 21 is a perspective view of the expansion joint, showing how a stool rail to support a sill is held to the mullion;

FIGURE 22 is an exploded view of the parts making up a locking device for securing or locking the jamb frames of adjacent sections of a curtainwall to a respective mullion;

FIGURE 23 is a fragmentary sectional view, taken along the line 23-23 of FIGURE 17, showing the adjacent frames of the fixed panels and projected windows separated by the stool rail, with the head of the projected window spaced from the stool rail to permit expansion of the unit while maintaining an effective seal;

FIGURE 24 is a fragmentary sectional view, taken along the line 24-24 of FIGURE 17, showing how the frames of the projected and picture windows are interlocked;

FIGURE 25 is a fragmentary sectional view taken along the line 25--25 of FIGURE 17, showing how the jambs of the projected windows are held to a mull-ion; and

FIGURE 26 is a fragmentary sectional view of a rail for supporting the pane of an awning type Window, and showing a self-locking glazing bead.

Referring to FIGURE 1, there is shown a pair of louvered windows 10, 11, separated by a picture window 12 set in the outside wall of a building or house, as generally indicated at 13. Viewed from the outside of a structure, as seen in FIGURE 1, the edges of the frames 14, 15, 16 of the louvered windows 10, 11 and the picture window 12 all present the same appearance.

Each section of the louvered windows 10, 11 is supported between clip elements 17, 18 which are engaged by respective link members 19, 20 to be operated for opening and closing the sections. All the sections of each louvered window are operated simultaneously, and for this purpose each of the louvered windows 10, 11 is provided with a manual operator or crank element 22, 23, adjacent one of the jamb frames, as shown.

Extending between the jamb frames 23, 24 of the window 10, and the jamb frames 25, 26 of the window 11, are respective meeting rails 27, 28. In each window, the operator exerts force through the adjacent jamb frame to move an operating bar and link members, and such force is transmitted through the meeting rails 27, 28 for operating another bar and the link members at the opposite edges of each section.

FIGURES 2 and 3 show the head and sill frame portions 30, 31 of the louvered window 11 in cross-section, and FIGURE 4 shows the jamb portions 25, 26 thereof in cross-section. As shown, the frame 15 is of the same cross-section throughout. Such construction includes a plate 32 which has grooves on one side to provide parallel ribs 33, 34, 35 extending from one surface thereof. The ribs 33, 35 extend from the edges of the plate 32, and have their ends inwardly at right angles, as indicated at 36 and 37. The intermediate rib 34 is disposed nearer the edge rib 33 than the rib 35, and is flanged at its outer end so as to provide oppositely directed edge portions 3a, 39.

As shown, the outer surfaces of the ribs 33, 34, 35 remote from the plate 32 lie in a common plane, such plane being parallel to the plate 32. In the louvered window construction of FIGURE 1, the head and sill frame portions 30, 31, and the jamb portion 26, are located in the window opening or vent defined by the studs 41), 41 of the building. As shown, the outer surfaces of the ribs 33, 34, 35 abut the studs 40, 41 so that the plate 32 is parallel to the sides of the vent.

My frame is held or secured to the studs 40, 41 by utilizing the opposed fingers 36, 38 of the ribs 33, 34 to hold an interlocking element therebetween. For example, and as shown in FIGURES 2-4, there is shown a fin interlock 42 of the type required in some localities for securing an aluminum window frame in a vent. Such an interlock is an L-shaped extnrded member, one side or leg 43 of which extends between the studs 40, 41 and the other side or leg 44 abuts the exposed finished surface of the stud 40. The outer edge of the leg 44 is provided with a fin portion 45 for securing the leg 44 to the stud 40, as by hammering the outside edge of the leg 44 against the stud 40 so as to force the fin portion 45 into the stud.

The leg 44 is provided with two small projections 47, 48 (see the lower portion of FIGURE 3) spaced apart to fit over the edge 36 of the rib 33. The projection 48 terminates in a flanged portion 49 adapted to fit the space between the ribs 33, 34. In this manner, the frame is securely held in the opening by the interlock 42.

The jamb section 50' of the picture window 12 is secured to the jamb 25 of the louvered window 11. Similarly, the opposite jamb 51 of the picture window 12 is secured to the adjacent jamb 24 of the louvered window 10. As shown in FIGURE 4, the jamb 50, which in cross-section is the same as the remaining portions of the frame for the picture window, also includes plate and rib projections identical in construction to the plate 32 and its ribs 33, 34, 35. The corresponding plate and rib portions are here illustrated in prime numbers.

As shown in FIGURE 4, the outer edges of the ribs on the plates 32, 32 are in abutment, so as to define, two spaced channels 53, 54.

The jamb frames 25, 50 are interlocked by one or both of two types of elements. As shown, the channels 53, 54 are essentially H-shaped, by virtue of the configuration of adjacent ribs and the finger edges above described which extend at right angles therefrom. I provide interlocking elements 55 (see FIGURE 10) and 56 (see FIGURE 11) which are shaped to fit the'respectrve channels 53, 54. The interlock elements 55, 56

may be of any desired material, and may be metal or plastic. Interlocking the two jambs 50, is readily accomplished by using an element which is of substantially the same length as the jambs. With the jambs in abutment as shown in FIGURE 4, it is a simple matter to insert the interlocking element 55 and shove it through the channel 53; after the interlock element 55 is in place, it will be seen that the jambs 25, 50 are firmly held together.

The interlock elements 56 may be spaced along the channel 54 and secured therein, as by threaded screw bolts 57 extending through the plates 32, 32 and the elements 56.

The exterior portion of each frame has the same appearance. To this end, and as shown more clearly in FIGURES 24, the plates 32 have an inwardly curving arcuate portion, indicated at 60, extending from one edge thereof in a direction opposite the ribs 33. The outer portion of the arcuate section 60 leads into a straight section 61 which is parallel to the plate 32. The straight section 61 terminates in a channel section 62, which comprises a web portion 63 at right angles to the straight section 61 and extending away from the plate 32, and legs 64, 65 which are bent in at their ends, as indicated at 66 and 67. As shown, one leg 64 of the channel 62 is integral with the straight section 61, with the section 62 being oriented so that its opening or channel 68 faces the exterior of the window opening or vent.

The structure of the frames is completed by a straight section 69 which extends at right angles from the plate 32 and in a direction opposite the nb 35. The outer edge of the straight section 69 terminates in a short rib element or section 70. The Width of the straight plate section 69 is designed to obscure from the interior of a room .apparatus to be secured to the straight section 61 and to the channel section 62, and apparatus enclosed between the straight section 61 and the plate 32.

As previously mentioned, the sections of the louvered Windows 10, 11 are supported in clips 17, 18. The clips have parallel plates 81, 82 and 83, 84 (see FIGURES 4 and 5) separated by respective walls 85 and 86. The exterior plates 81 and 83 extend at their lower ends past the plates 82, 84 and are turned in, as at 87 and 88, to provide shoulders for supporting the lower edge of a louver 89.

The upper ends of the inner plates 82 and 84 extend past the upper ends of the exterior plates 81, 83 and are turned outwardly, as at 91 and 92, to provide shoulder supports for the upper edge of the louver 89. When the louver 89 is assembled with its end between the pairs of plates 81, 82 and 83, 84, I prefer to secure the louver in place with a suitable bonding material.

To secure the sections of the louvered windows in place (see FIGURES 5 and 9), small housings 93 and 94 .are secured to the respective walls 85 and 86 at the upper ends thereof. The housings 93, 94 support respective spring-biased pins 95, 96 which are adapted to be snapped into mating receptacles in the jamb frames. As shown more clearly in FIGURE 9, the housing 94 has a central opening 97 therein, in which is located a compression spring 98. The pin 96 is flanged within the opening 97, as indicated at 99, and the straight sections 61 of the jamb frames (see FIGURE 9) are provided with aligned openings to receive the ends of the pins 95, 96. Thus, each section can be readily put in place by depressing the pins 95, 96 so as to locate them between the straight sections 61; by grasping the clips 17, 18, the louver can be maneuvered easily to align the pins with their openings, whereupon the springs 98 force the pins into the openings.

Each of the links 19, 20 is pivotally mounted at one end to its respective clip, and its other end is pivotally mounted on an operating bar disposed within the jamb frame. To this end (see FIGURES 35), the clips are provided with lateral extension walls 101, 102 which are secured to or integral with the connection Walls 85,

86. A short distance below their upper ends, the walls 181, 102 are provided with elongated slots 101, 102 (see FIGURE 9) through which the links 19, 20 extend. At their outer ends, the links 19, 20 are pivotally supported within respective trapezoidal projections 103, 104 which extend outwardly from the walls 101, 102. The pivotal connection for the link 19 is indicated at 105 in FIGURE 5. Thus, each link extends into a recess having sloping edges, as at 106, 107, to permit the link to be forced against this pivot so as to simultaneously force the clips in or out and to move about the pivot freely.

The supporting bar for the links 19 is indicated at in FIGURES 2-4. The links 19 are pivotally connected to the bar 110 as at 111.

In the closed position of the louvers, the operating bar 118 is in a lowermost position wherein the link pivots 111 thereon are vertically spaced a maximum distance below the pivots 105 of the links 19. To open the louvers, the operating bar 110 is raised from such lowermost position. In such upward movement of the operating bar, the vertical separation between the pivots 111, 105 decreases, whereupon the links 19 are forced against their pivots 105 to move the louvers 89 outwardly. At the upper position of the operating bar 110, the vertical separation between the pivots 105, 111 is at a minimum, and in this position of the links 19, the louvers 89 are substantially horizontal, as indicated in phantom in FIG- URE 2.

When the operating bar 110 is lowered, the louvers 89 move into the position shown in FIGURES 2 and 3. In such positions, and considering the four louvered sections of the windows 10, 11 of FIGURE 1, the topmost louver and also the louver immediately below the meeting rail 28, close against the louver directly beneath it. As shown more clearly in FIGURE 3, these louvers are designed to overlap slightly, whereupon their abutting surfaces provide an effective seal.

However, the remaining horizontal edges of the various louvers are in abutment with the respective seal members which extend the width of the frame. Additionally, the clips 17, 18 close against respective seal members which extend the length thereof. To this end, respective seals 115, 116 are supported in the channel 68 of the head and sill frame portions, and are abutted by the upper edge of the topmost louver and the lower edge of the lowermost louver, respectively. Any desired sealing material may be provided, such as woven pile, as at 115. However, I prefer to use a vinyl seal in the sill frame having an arcuate portion against which the lower edge of the lowermost louver is in engagement when the louver is closed.

The lower edge of the louver immediately above the meeting rail 28, and the upper edge of the louver immediately below such meeting rail, engage respective woven pile seals 118, 119 supported in the meeting rail.

The clips 17, 18 engage woven pile strips 121, 122 supported in the channel 68 of the jamb frame sections. Therefore, it will be seen that closure of the louvers of my louvered window is accomplished in every case by a fiat surface coming into contact directly with a sealing element. This is in sharp contrast to prior art arrangements where, for example, louver-supporting clips are made to move with respect to a seal, as in a shearing action. Accordingly, I dispose all seals in such a manner that they can never be subjected to wear and tear due to any shearing action, and thus will not flatten and set.

The raising and lowering of the operating bar 110 is effected by the operator 23. To this end, the operating bar 110 is provided with a toothed rack section 125 (see FIGURE 6), the teeth of which are in engagement with the gear 126 disposed within a housing 127 from which the operator extends. The inner end of the operator 23 is adapted, as indicated at 128, to turn the gear 126 and thereby operate the bar 110.

I do not rely on the operating bar 110 alone to raise and lower the louvers. Rather, I distribute the load by means of a torque bar 131} which extends through the meeting rail 28. As shown, the torque bar 1311 is provided with teeth which engage the rack section of the operating bar 110. A similar operating bar 131 (see FIG- URE 4) is located in the opposite jamb, and to this the links 20 are pivotally mounted as indicated at 132., in the manner the links 19 are supported. As in the case of the operating bar 110, the bar 131 and the adjacent end of the torque bar 134 are arranged in the manner of a rack and pinion. Accordingly, rotation of the manual operator 23 causes the operating bars 110, 131 to move up and down simultaneously. In this manner, the links 19, 20 are caused to move in and out simultaneously, thereby assuring equal distribution of the load required to effect operation of each louver. Furthermore, the glass is not subjected to a torque; pressures at the ends are equal. Therefore, in my invention there is no opportunity for the glass to get twisted in such a manner that an effective seal cannot be maintained. The operating mechanism insures that the louvers and clips will always close firmly against their respective seals, and abutting glass surfaces are maintained under the same pressure throughout.

To secure my meeting rail 28 to the jambs (see FIG- URE 8) I insert elongated screw bolts 135 through the jambs and into openings 13 provided therefor in the ends of the meeting rail 28. Also adjacent the ends of the meeting rail 28, I provide bushings 137 (see FIGURES 6 and 6a) having openings 138 to receive the torque bar 130. The bushings 137 are adapted to fit flush against the inner surface of the meeting rail 28 and they are therefore chamfered, as at 139, so as to clear the openings 136 in the adjacent corners of the meeting rail 28.

As previously mentioned, the exterior surfaces of the frame constructions of my invention are identical in appearance. With respect to the picture window 12, and referring to FIGURE 4, the frame 16 is provided with an arcuate portion 141) which is shaped like the portion '60 of the frames 14, 15 previously described. Intermediate the ends of the arcuate portion 140 and plate 32, the inner surface of the portion 140 is grooved to receive a glazing bead 141 which bears against the outer surface of the glass 12 adjacent the edge thereof. The edge of the glass 12' abuts a finger extension 142 which extends from the inner surface of the arcuate portion 140 in a direction parallel to the plate 32-. The opposite surface of the glass is firmly abutted by one leg of a C-shaped snap-on glazing mold element 143, the end of which extends past the corner of the glass to engage the finger projection 142. The opposite leg of the C-shaped member 143 terminates in an arcuate portion 144 which fits snugly over a rib 145 provided on the end of an arm 1'46 extending from the plate 32. The element 143 is placed in position by pressing the one leg thereof against the glass, and then forcibly snapping the arcuate portion 144 over the rib 145. By this construction, the glass is effectively secured in the frame.

FIGURE 12 shows a clear-vent window in which the pair of panes 151, 152 are separated by a meeting rail 153. The meeting rail 153 contains a torque bar 154 (see FIGURE 13), which, like the torque bar 130* previously described, is adapted to cause the movements of an operating bar 155, as initiated by an operator 1'56, and to distribute the load by transmitting the exerted force to a similar operaing bar 157 located in the opposite jamb. The meeting rail 153 supports woven pile seal strips 118, 119 which perform the same function as the seal strips 118, 119 of FIGURES 2 and3, i.e., the bottom of the pane 1'51 and the top of the pane 152 engage their respective strips'118', 119 when they are in the closed position.

The frame used throughout for the clear-vent window construction is exactly the same as that heretofore described in connection with the louvered windows of FIG- URE l. Respective woven pile strips 158, 159 extend across the widths of the head and sill frame portions, as in the manner of the pile strip 115 of FIGURES 2 and 3.

8 Similarly, woven pile strips 121', 122 (see FIGURE 14) are provided in the jamb frame portions to perform the same functions as the strips 121, 122 of FIGURE 4.

The clear vent sections 151, 152 are adapted to move down and out when being opened. To effect such operation, links 160, instead of being mounted on the operating bar, are pivotally mounted on brackets 161 (see FIGURE 16) as indicated at 162. The opposite ends of the links are pivotally mounted on the upper ends of vent side rails 164, 165 which support the pane of glass. The operating bars are disposed between the brackets 161 and the links 161 Therefore, to effect movement of the operating bars relative to the brackets, slots 167 (see FIGURE 13) are provided therein.

Although the operating bars do not move the links directly, they do effect movement of the links by operating hinge elements 168 direct-1y which are secured to the upper portions of the vent side rails 164, (see FIGURES 13 and 14). The hinges 168 are substantially L-shaped members, one leg 169 of which is pivotally mounted on the operating bar, as at 170.

With this arrangement, the operating bar is in an uppermost position when the panes are closed. In this position, the leg 169 of the hinge at the top of the pane 151 extends into the space between the channel section 62 and the rear plate 69 of the frame. In this position, the glass pane engages the seal 158. As will be seen, lowering the operating bars forces the hinges 168 downward. The upper ends of the links 160 are forward of their lower ends, so that this downward movement of the hinges 168 effects movement of the pane and of the links 1611 so that the upper ends of the links 160, and hence the entire panes are forced out in an arc. The cooperating movements of the hinges 168 and the links cause the pane to move down while its lower edge simultaneously swings outwardly.

Upward movement of the operating bars causes the hinges 168 to pull the vent side rails 164, 165 upwardly, whereupon the links 160 are forced to follow so as to bring the panes firmly into engagement with their respective seals.

The vent side rails 164, 165 each contain oppositely directed channel portions 171, 172 and 173, 174, such rails being grooved intermediate such channel portions to receive the links 160. The adjacent channel portions 172, 173 receive the edges of the glass panes, which are secured therein with suitable bonding material, indicated at 175. The remote channel portions 171, 174 support respective seals 176, 177 which, in the closed positions of the panes, engage the adjacent straight section 61 of the frame. In this manner, the entire window structure is firmly supported, and the various seals insure that no moisture or drafts will enter a room when the windows are closed.

It should be noted that the seals 176, 177 may be omitted, and the seals 121, 122 may be relied on to provide the desired seal.

Since window frames made in accordance with my invention all have a uniform appearance, my invention provides wide latitude for the architect who wishes to incorporate a variety of windows, both fixed and functional, in a curtain wall construction to form the face of a building. FIGURE 17 shows a portion of a curtain wall comprising spaced vertical members or mullions 180. Windows supported between adjacent mullions are arranged so that, at the floor level, there is provided an opaque panel 181 which, for example, maybe aluminum. Immediately above the aluminum panel 181 is a respective picture window 182, and above the picture windows are projected type windows 183 which form the top panels for each floor.

The mullions are extruded aluminum elements which are fitted together in such a manner as to allow for expansion and contraction along their axes. Referring to FIGURE 20, the exterior portion of each mullion is 9 a substantially hollow rectangular body 184. Integral with the body 184, and extending inwardly therefrom, are a pair of closely-spaced, parallel walls 185, 186 which are closed at their inner edges, as by a connecting wall '187.

Adjacent the inner edges of the walls 185, 186, are vertical channels 188, 189. The channels 188, 189 are adapted to receive the ends of respective U-shaped snap-in molds 190, 191 (see FIGURES l8 and 25) which provide trim for the frames. The molds 190, 191 are snapped on after the frames are locked with respect to the mullions.

Referring again to FIGURE 20, the mullion 180 is secured adjacent its lower end to a bracket 192 which is fixed, as at 193, to the floor slab 194. The bracket 192 is a substantially U-shaped element, the legs of which flare outwardly to receive the fastening means 193 which extend into the floor slab 194. To secure the mullion 180 to the bracket 192, a plug element 195 is disposed between the walls 185, 186, and screw bolt-s 196 extend through the outer face of the bracket 192 and through the connecting wall 187 into the plug 195.

The lower end of the mullion 180 extends a short distance below the floor slab 194. The lower end of such mullion, and the upper end of the next mullion 180 are coupled by an expansion joint section 198. The expansion joint 198 (see FIGURE 21) includes a male member 199 adapted to fit within the body portions 184 of the adjacent mullion 180. The male member 199 is provided with an external rib 280, the width of which is substantially the same as the thickness of the walls of the body members 184. The rib 200 is seated against the lower end of the upper mullion 180 (see FIGURE 20).

Extending from the inner edge of the rib 200 is a rec tangular plate 201 on which is mounted a male member 202 which is adapted to fit between the side walls 185, 186 of the mullion. The expansion joint 198 is secured to the upper mullion 180, as by nut and bolt arrangements 203 (see FIGURE 20) extending between the walls 185, 186 and projecting through aligned openings 204 (see FIGURE 31) in the male member 202. Preferably, the mating parts are sealed, as by caulking.

Extending through the walls 185, 186 from the opposite sides of the male member 202 are a pair of U-shaped brackets 205, 206 having their legs directed downwardly. The brackets 205, 206 are slightly spaced from the male member 199, and are adapted to support the ends of stool rail members which form the bottom support for the frames of the aluminum panels 118. Such a stool rail, indicated at 210 in FIGURES 20, 21 and 23, is an extruded aluminum member of rectangular crosssection, and having an integral splash-plate 211 directed outwardly from the lower edge of the forward vertical wall of the rail 210. At the end of the rail 210, its bottom wall is cut out (see FIGURE 21), thereby forming a U-shaped end portion which fits over the bracket 205. The brackets 205, 206 are provided with integral bosses 212, 213 extending from the rear legs thereof. The rear wall of the rail 210 is notched, as at 214, to fit over the 'boss 212. Preferably, the boss 212 has an enlarged head thereon so that when the notched portion 214 is fitted over the boss, the enlarged head will engage the rail and prevent it from sliding off.

I prefer to make the notched portion 214 greater than the diameter of the boss 212. Further, the ends of the rail are spaced from the mullions. In this manner, I allow the rail 210 to expand and contract without exerting stress on the expansion joint.

The rail 210 is provided on its upper surface with a pair of parallel ribs 215. The ribs 215 project from the upper surface of the rail 210 a distance equal to the length of the ribs which extend from the plates 32, 32' of the frames above described. As shown in FIGURE 23, the ribs 215 are spaced so as to fit between, and be abutted by, the inwardly turned portions of the ribs 34,

10 35' of the frame heretofore described for the picture window 12 of FIGURE 1. A seal 216 is provided in the channel or groove formed between the ribs 33', 34 to prevent moisture and air from entering between the frame and rail 210.

It will thus be seen that the stool rails 210 provided between the adjacent mullions are not secured to the frames which rest thereon. The engaging ribs on the rail and the frame are effective to prevent these parts from being disengaged. However, they are not locked against relative vertical movement, whereupon the combined panels of a unit resting on the stool rail 210 are free to expand vertically.

Further allowance for vertical expansion is effected by the manner in which I use the expansion joint 198, and by the manner in which I arrange the head frames of the projected windows 183 immediately below the rails 210. In fitting the mullions 1'80 together, the end of the mullion directly below the expansion joint 198 is fitted over the lower portion of the male member 199, but is spaced slightly below the rib 200. Then such lower mullion is secured adjacent its lower end to its floor bracket in the manner described in connection with FIGURE 20. Thus, the upper ends of the mullions float on the male members, thereby providing for vertical expansion and contraction of the mullions. If desired, a resilient seal or gasket can be fixed to the rib 200, to keep the space free from moisture and air infiltration.

The head frames for the projected windows 183 are, as shown in FIGURE 23, arranged adjacent the lower surface of the rail 210, and a seal 217 is provided in the channel formed between the inturned ends of the ribs 33, 34 which extend from the plate 32 of the frame. However, I prefer to space the ribs 33, 34 and 35 slightly from the lower surface of the rail 210, and thereby provide for vertical expansion of the window structures. The frame is held in the desired floating arrangement by a seal 218 attached to the splash-plate 211 and bearing against the front surface of the frame.

By providing for vertical expansion, as above described, the abutting sill and head frames of the fixed panels 181 and the picture windows 182, and of the picture windows 182 and the projected windows 183, can be secured together. As shown in FIGURE 19, the plates 32' are secured together by interlocks 55, 56 in a manner previously described in connection with FIGURE 4. Similarly, the plates 32, 32' (see FIGURE 24) of the sill and head frames for the projected windows 183 and picture windows 182 are secured by interlocks 55 and 56.

Lateral expansion of the window structures is provided for in a manner similar to the above-described arrangement for spacing the head frame of the projected windows 183 from the lower surface of the stool rail 210. Referring to FIGURE 18, the plates 32' of the jamb frame supporting the picture windows 182 are positioned so that the ribs thereof are slightly spaced from the walls 185, 186 of the mullion 180. Similarly, in FIGURE 25, the plates 32 of the jamb frames supporting the projected windows 183 are positioned so that their ribs are spaced slightly from the walls 185, 186 of the mullion 180. It will be apparent, therefore, that my invention provides a curtainwall construction which can float and breathe freely, and thereby avoid structural stresses, while at the same time adequately providing moisture-proof sealing arrangements.

I also lock the jamb frames to the mullions 180, but I do so in such a manner that there is no interference with the expansion and contraction of the structures. Referring to FIGURES 18 and 22, I provide a locking element which comprises arectangular tie-in plate 220, an oblong bolt plate 221, and a key member 222. The plates 220, 221 have aligned openings 223, 224 to receive a pin 225 on the key 222. The other end of the key 222 is an enlarged diameter section 226, and the opening 224 of the plate 221 is sufliciently large to receive this section. The enlarged diameter section 226 has a flat 227 on its lateral surface adjacent the pin 225, and the opening 224 in the plate 221 is similarly contoured, as indicated at 2.28. Thus, in assembly (see FIGURES l8 and 25) the lower end of the enlarged diameter section 226 extends into the opening 224 and rests on the upper surface of the plate 220.

The plate 220 has a pair of spaced ribs 230, 231 on its lower surface, and the distance between the remote sides of the ribs 230, 231 is equal to the distance between the inner surfaces of the walls 185, 186. The walls 185, 186 are appropriately slotted so that the plate 220 rests thereon and the ribs 230, 231 engage the walls at their inner surfaces. With my locking means assembled, the plate 221 is at right angles to the plate 220, and the ends of the plate 221 extend through the walls 185, I86 and through aligned slots in the plates 32 (plates 32 in FIGURE 25) of the frame.

It will be apparent from FIGURE 19 that I use identical frame sections to support both the picture windows 182 and the aluminum panels 181. The only difierence is in the snap-on mold; a snap-on mold 143 is used for the same purpose as the snap-on glazing mold 143, the only difference being that its panel engaging portion is adapted to accommodate a member of greater thickness.

It will also be apparent that the projected windows 183 are operable in exactly the same manner as the clear-vent windows above-described in connection with FIGURES 12-16. However, I employ a different vent rail arrangement. I prefer to use vent rails completely around the panes in the projected windows. This arrangement provides members having structural strength, capable of supporting larger vents. As shown in FIGURE 23, the vent rail 24t3 is shaped much like the side vent rails 165 of FIGURES l and 16. However, the vent rail 240 is wider and is provided with a hollow portion 241 adjacent the link groove. Such additional material makes the vent rail stronger, thereby to permit larger vents to be supported thereby.

In addition, the pane is secured to my vent rail 240 in a novel manner. The vent rail 240* has an extension 242 from the front surface of the hollow section 241, and such extension is grooved at its inner surface, as at 243, to receive a glazing seal 244. The cross-section of the groove 243 is slightly greater than a semi-circle. The seal 244 is adapted to fit snugly in the groove 243, and is held by the edges of the groove after being snapped into the groove.

Opposite the extension 242, a glazing bead 245 is secured to the hollow section 241 by screws 246, such bead 245 being grooved to receive a glazing seal 247. The extension 242 and the bead 245 are spaced so that the end of the pane is firmly held between the seals 244, 247.

The seal 244 is first snapped in place, and then the pane is placed against it. The bead 24-5 is then secured to the hollow section 241, after which the seal 247 is rolled into its groove in the bead. The assembly is easily made, and the glass cannot come out.

FIGURE 26 shows a vent rail 250 for an awning type window which employs a novel self-locking glazing bead. The vent rail 250 is grooved to receive the end of a link, as in the manner of the vent rail 165 for the clear-vent window. The vent rail 250, however, is adapted to hold a pane between glazing seals 243, 246 as in the manner of the vent rail 240 of FIGURE 23.

The glazing bead 251 is made self-locking by means of a finger element 252 held by the main body of the vent rail 250. To this end, the portion of the vent rail adjacent the link groove is cut out so as to form a groove 253 which is at an angle with respect to the center-line of the rail. The end of the finger 252 is adapted to span the bottom of the groove 253. The bead 251 is positioned by inserting the finger 252 into the groove 253,

the main body of the bead being shaped, as at 254, snugly engage the adjacent portion of the rail.

To assemble the glass, the seal 224 is snapped into place and the edge surfaces of the glass are placed against the seal. Next, my self-locking glazing bead 251 is put in position as above-described. Finally, the seal 247 is rolled into position, being forced into a groove or cradle 254 in the head.

It will be readily apparent that my self locking bead can be used in place of the screw-on bead shown in FIGURE 23. When the self-locking bead is used, screws are eliminated, it being a simpler matter to assemble a window.

Although I have described particular embodiments of my invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of my invention. Therefore, I do not intend that my invention be limited, except as defined by the appended claims.

I claim: I

1. In a curtain wall for supporting a plurality of window structures, the combination of: a frame for each window structure having head, jamb and sill elements, each formed of an extruded element having a Hat plate with protuberances on one surface to abut a marginal member in a Window opening and locate said plate parallel to such marginal member, a relatively wide flat rib at one edge of said plate extending from its opposite surface and at right angles thereto, a relatively narrow rib at the opposite edge of said plate extending from said opposite surface, said narrow rib having an edge portion curving toward, but terminating short of, the plane of said Wide rib, said narrow rib having a groove therein for receiving a strip seal, said groove being located intermediate the edges of said wide rib, said groove being oriented so that the edge of a Window structure may be placed against a strip seal therein, and a strip seal in said groove.

2. A combination as defined in claim 1, further includ-. ing a pair of hollow mullions forming the marginal members at the sides of the window opening; and means resiliently locking said plates of said jamb elements to said mullions.

3. A combination as defined in claim 1, further including a plurality of hollow mullions of equal length, each formed of extruded aluminum sections of equal length; a plurality of said frames being stacked vertically intermediate adjacent mullions; means releasably locking the jamb elements of said frames to the adjacent mullions; means releasably locking the adjacent sill and head elements of adjacent frames together; and an expansion joint between adjacent sections of each mullion.

4. A combination as defined in claim 3, wherein each of predetermined window structures includes a sheet fixed within the associated frame, the means for fixing said sheet in place including the strip seals in the grooves of the elements thereof; and extruded resilient elements disposed between the edge portions of said sheet and the wide ribs of said head, jamb and sill elements, said resilient elements biasing said sheets against said strip seals with sufficient force to prevent air and moisture from passing around the edges of said sheet.

5. A combination as defined in claim 3,. wherein each of predetermined Window structures includes a pair of clip members for supporting the vertical edges of a pane of glass in a window opening; means at the upper ends of said jamb elements supporting said clip members for pivotal movement; a link element pivotally mounted at one end to each clip member intermediate its ends; and means in said jamb elements engaging the opposite ends of said link elements for vertical movement inthe window opening.

6. A combination as defined in claim 3, wherein each of predetermined window structures includes a pair of elongated parallel bars spaced by a connecting member,

said bars being adapted to receive and hold the edge of a glass pane therebetween; a link bar adapted at one end for vertical movement in the window opening, said link bar being pivotally connected to said connecting member intermediate the ends thereof; and a laterally extending spring-biased pin supported by the upper end of said connecting member, said pin being adapted to enter a mating opening in a jamb element, whereby to permit the pane to be snapped into place in the frame, said pins also providing pivot points about which the pane may be moved.

7. A combination as defined in claim 1, wherein said protuberances define a groove adapted to be releasably locked by a mating member, whereby two of said flat plates may have their protuberances in opposed relation and locked by such mating member; means holding the ends of a glass pane; link means between the parallel members of the jamb elements, said link means engaging said holding means; a vertically movable element in each jamb element; means extending between said jarnb elements and coupling said vertically movable elements; and means coupled to one of said movable elements to effect operation of both movable elements simultaneously.

8. A combination as defined in claim 1, further including: nails for supporting the vertical edges of a glass pane, each rail including a pair of oppositely facing elongated channel members, the confronting channel members being adapted to receive the vertical edges of the pane, and the remaining channel members being adapted to receive Weatherstripping; an elongated connecting member between the channel members, said conmeeting member holding said channel members spaced apart; and means within the space between said said channel members for moving them in and out with respect to the opening.

9. A combination as defined in claim 1, further including: rails for supporting opposite edges of a glass pane of one of the window openings, each including a pair of spaced elongated channel members facing in opposite directions, the confronting channel members being adapted to receive Weatherstripping; a respective operating bar slidably disposed for vertical movement in the space between the channel members; a respective hinge element pivotally connected to each operating bar adjacent the upper end of each side rail; and a respective link element connected at its opposite ends to each side rail and its operating bar, said link element being disposed below said hinge element.

10. A window structure as defined in claim 3, wherein each expansion joint for supporting adjacent sections of the mullions includes a male element disposed within the adjacent ends of both sections, said element having an external encircling rib for separating the sections; and means securing said male element to one of the sections.

11. A window structure as defined in claim 3, wherein each expansion joint for supporting adjacent sections includes: a male element disposed within the adjacent ends of both sections, said element having an external encircling rib for separating the sections; means for securing said male element to one of the sections; and laterally extending elements secured to said male element for receiving and releasably supporting a horizontal window support member.

12. A window structure as defined in claim '3, wherein the releasable locking means for securing the jamb elements to a mullion includes a pair of substantially rectangular plates to be disposed within a mullion, said plates having apertures to receive a pin element, the aperture in one plate being non-circular, said one plate being sufiicien-tly long to extend through the mullion and into a jamb element on one side thereof, the other plate being adapted to be held in the mullion; and a pin element having a circular portion and a non-circular portion, said pin element having its circular portion passiug through said other plate and its non-circular portion in mating engagement with the non-circular aperture in said one plate, whereby turning of the pin while holding said other plate firm causes said one plate to rotate.

References Cited in the file of this patent 

